Southampton striker Shane Long has switched off from social media

Long has managed only three goals from 64 appearances in all competitions for Saints and the Republic of Ireland.

Fellow teammate Nathan Redmond has previously stated the benefits outweigh the negatives of staying away from the social media trolls.

Saints star Nathan Redmond

Speaking to the Southampton FC website, Long said: “I think you put unnecessary pressure on yourself.

“I don't take any notice when I'm doing well and people are praising me, so why should I pay attention to all the negative things being said about me?

“I didn't talk to Redders about it, but he's obviously had a good season and you can see he's more confident in himself and playing well, so there could be a lot to be said about that.

“The younger age grow up with social media, so hopefully it doesn't pollute their minds as they get older.

“I think the older players can laugh it off, but it's never nice to read, even if you don't really take any notice. Why put yourself in that position?

“I know the fans of Southampton like the way I work for the team, but there's always that argument 'he doesn't score enough goals'. You've got to accept that as well.

“Coming off Twitter has been good for me – I don't read any negative stuff. I'm my own worst and best critic – I know what I've done well and what I need to improve on.

“Those people writing on Twitter can't change it. It's only me who can change it."

Shane Long in action against Tottenham

Long’s last goal came in the 2-1 victory away to Leicester back in January.

Despite his recent record in front of the net, the striker has consistently shown there is more to his game.

The 32-year-old’s pace off the bench means that the opposition’s defenders aren’t given a minute’s rest when he is up front.

In the interview with Saints’ website, Long insisted that he is doing his best to turn his goalscoring fortunes around.

“There are lots of different reasons that come into it, but ultimately there’s only one person who can change it, and that’s me,” he explained.

“I’m trying to train hard and improve things that aren’t going right, but I think a lot of it is down to confidence.

“I’ve got to believe in myself first of all, and then others will believe in me.”